How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? 15 And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!”
One argument against the sovereignty of God is that it makes evangelism redundant. Why share the gospel if God chooses anyway? Ironically, Paul answers the question right after asserting God’s election of his people. This is a mystery. Salvation is passive. We receive it. But God allows us to participate in his sovereign election in ways that resemble a decision from the recipient, hence the confusion. Paul’s reasoning is simple. Salvation is by faith alone, only after hearing the gospel preached to them by a sent out one. It is a beautiful progression that is self-replicating as we share in the preaching.
That is, if we are indeed sharing in the proclamation of the gospel. We have a gilt edge opportunity to see the work of the sovereign God choosing his followers. Better yet, we have the chance to share in the work. It is too good to miss. Yet miss it we do on a regular basis due to fear, busyness, or an idea that it is someone else’s job. May today be the day we have beautiful feet on the street instead of on a footstool. May someone hear it preached, believe, and get on their feet themselves.
Dear Lord, thank you for the good news and the beautiful feet you give us to share it. May we be walking in your ways and at your service today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Pastor Brad Boyer
Cape Community Church